Types of ADHD Medication in the UK
There are three kinds of UK-licensed ADHD medications: those that contain the methylphenidate (eg Concerta XL or Equasym XL) and those that contain dexamfetamine.
Stimulants work by increasing activity in the brain, specifically areas that play a part in controlling attention and behavior. They can also reduce the impulsivity. Other ADHD medications include atomoxetine bupropion, and antidepressants like bupropion.
What is ADHD?
ADHD is an illness of the brain that can cause issues with attention to impulse control, attention span, and even hyperactivity. It affects children as well as adults and can create difficulties in school, work and relationships.
While the exact cause of ADHD is not known, it appears that certain chemical changes in the brain could be the cause of the symptoms. These chemicals are known as neurotransmitters, and include norepinephrine and dopamine.
The medications that help reduce ADHD symptoms target these neurotransmitters. They can be the combination of stimulants and non-stimulants, or a single medication.
Medication is usually used in conjunction with behavioral therapy, that can help you change your habits and acquire new techniques. It is crucial to sleep enough and eat a balanced, balanced diet.
Exercise can aid in reducing ADHD symptoms. It boosts brain levels of dopamine, norepinephrine and can reduce the severity of symptoms. This can make ADHD sufferers feel more focused and less anxious.
Other factors that can aid in the treatment of ADHD include drinking fewer caffeinated and sugary drinks, getting adequate sleep, exercising and ensuring good mental health. It is essential to maintain an optimistic mindset and stick to a schedule.
If you or your child is suffering from ADHD it is essential to keep the track of your symptoms and report them to your doctor. Your doctor will track your progress and make any adjustments to your treatment plan.
Combining medication, behavior therapy and skill-training is the best way to treat ADHD. Multimodal treatment is more effective than medication on its own however it can take some time to identify the right combination.
ADHD stimulants are the most commonly prescribed. They are usually taken once daily in small doses to start with. Long-acting, or extended-release formulations that build slowly in the bloodstream, and wear off slowly could be more effective for certain people. These reduce the rebound effect that occurs when the drug wears off and the symptoms return.
Doctors might prescribe stimulants in addition to other drugs which improve focus and concentration. These are referred to as non-stimulants. They take a bit longer to kick in as stimulants, however, they can be more effective in those with ADHD.
It's important to talk to your doctor about the side effects of the ADHD medication you or your child is taking. These adverse effects can cause anxiety and depression. Changing the dose can sometimes reduce these problems.
Other adverse effects that are common include irritability and difficulty concentration. Writing down your experiences in a journal can help you track your reactions and communicate them to your doctor. You can also give this information to your family members or anyone else who might be able to assist.
It can be difficult to concentrate on tasks when you have difficulties focus. You may forget to finish your homework or skip important social events.
Stimulants
The most effective treatment for ADHD is using stimulant medications. They are also the most prescribed medication for attention deficit disorder (ADD). They work by increasing levels of dopamine in the brain. This leads to an increase in focus, concentration and motivation.
non stimulant adhd medication can be used to decrease hyperactivity, aggression and the impulsivity. The most commonly used stimulant medications include methylphenidate (also known as adderall), or dexedrine.
They can be taken in capsules, pills, or tablets. They are usually taken in the morning and then released into the bloodstream within a few hours.
There are two kinds of stimulants: short-acting and long-acting. Both are available in generic formulations and are effective, safe treatment for ADHD.
Adults and kids alike enjoy longer-acting stimulants with longer-lasting effects. However they can be costly and may have a longer-lasting negative side effect. This kind of medication should be used only for a single dose per day.
Adults and children who are dependent on stimulants are at greater risk of developing heart disease. They should be checked regularly for changes in their heart rate and blood pressure. If there is a problem your doctor can alter the dosage or stop taking the medication altogether.
Stimulant medications can cause number of side effects, but most are mild and will go away with time. Some people have nausea or vomiting after taking these drugs, but this is rare. Others may experience a slight rise of their heart rate and blood pressure.
These side effects usually last for about an hour and can be controlled by adjusting the medication's dosage or schedule. While some medicines may have no side effects or mild side effects, others can cause serious reactions and require hospitalization.
When your doctor prescribes medication for your child, she will take into account his weight and age as well as any other factors that can impact the effectiveness of the medication. Your doctor will alter the dosage of the medicine that your child receives to ensure the most effective outcomes.
Certain of the side effects can be serious, for instance, seizures or low blood pressure. If you notice any of these signs you should contact your doctor immediately.
Other side effects are less severe and can include problems sleeping, irritability or increased appetite. Tics, which are abrupt, repetitive movements, or sounds, like the sound of a throat clearing or eye blinking may also be caused by some medications.
Tics are very common in children suffering from ADHD and can make it hard to concentrate. Tics can be a traumatic and terrifying experience for parents, so it's crucial to be aware of them.
If you think your child is developing a tic disorder, talk to his doctor. You may be able to receive a medication that has no adverse side effects.
The first medications prescribed to treat ADHD in the UK are the methylphenidate (Elvanse), and lisdexamfetamine (Elvanse). To achieve the most effective results, the medication must be taken slowly and the dosage should be adjusted regularly.
Other medications can be used to treat ADHD including antidepressants and blood pressure medication. These medications affect the brain's Norepinephrine and dopamine levels. They can be a good alternative when stimulant medications don't work or causes excessive side consequences.